A concussion is a traumatic brain injury that can occur when a person receives a blow to the head during an accident or when they are violently jolted. The sudden movement or blunt force trauma to the head can cause the person’s brain to jostle inside the skull and strike the bones. This can cause damage to the brain cells and metabolic changes in the brain. While a concussion is generally considered a mild form of traumatic brain injury, it can still impact the person’s quality of life and can worsen over time without prompt treatment. It might take several months for the person to recover, and some people might continue to experience ongoing symptoms.
Whiplash is an injury that can occur when your head and neck are thrown forward and backward, which is common in rear-end collisions. This sudden movement can cause muscle and tendon strains and tears in the neck. It can also cause soft tissue damage and soreness in the area. Whiplash injuries typically occur in accidents when a person in the front car is propelled forward by the impact before being thrown backward as the vehicle quickly decelerates.
Both whiplash and concussions can occur when a person is violently jerked back and forth, which often happens in car accidents. In fact, they’re among the most common injuries that accident victims might suffer. While whiplash and concussion symptoms can be similar, they are not the same types of injuries and require different treatments. Understanding both types of injuries is important. Seeking medical attention right after a motor vehicle collision to obtain a proper diagnosis and ensure you receive the correct treatment is vital for a good recovery.
